Parents of autistic kids members of a club they didn't want to join

In response to “Focus on Autism”: Thank you, Advance, for the great support you give the parents of children with autism. Sixteen years ago, when my son was diagnosed, the stats were 1 in 10,000. Now they are a horrifying 1 in 120 and rising.

Unfortunately, we have become members of a club we never wished to join. I understand that other parents may feel alone, but we are all one family.

We are standing up in large numbers fighting for services for all children and adults with disabilities. Our triumphs are yours. Don’t ever feel alone, we understand your pain. Your children are many of our children’s friends.

Don’t ever let any one divide our mutual cause, providing programs and services for our children through adulthood.